An inflatable retractor for use in laparoscopic surgery of a patients body includes an inflatable element disposed at a distal end of a retractor shaft. The retractor shaft includes a port for receiving insufflating fluid. The inflatable element includes an inner and outer surface such that the inflatable element forms an angle with the retractor shaft and forms a compartment when the inflatable element is insufflated with fluid. The angle formed between the inflatable element and retractor shaft changes depending upon the insufflating pressure. In this way, the rigidity and shape of the inflatable element is controlled by the surgeon by the amount of insufflating pressure used, allowing for flexibility and ease of use.
